My Commons Life

News & features about the Vanderbilt Commons from the students who live here

Features

Commons Cupdate 4/27

by

West House, Winner of the 2022 Commons Cup

On Sunday evening at the Commons Ball, the moment we have all been waiting for finally arrived: the results of the Commons Cup were announced.

And the winner is …… WEST HOUSE!!!!!!!

After winning three of the five Commons Cup categories, West House is the clear winner to the 2021-2022 Commons Cup. North House has been dethroned by their neighbor across the lawn. I cannot think of a better way for West to finish end their centennial anniversary than by claiming the Commons Cup. Congratulations! This year, West House really was the Best House.

Following West, East took second place. Crawford and Sutherland tied for third.

Winners for the different categories were also announced and are as follows:

Community Involvement – West House

Sustainability – West House

Service – West House

Academics – Crawford House

Athletics – Hank Ingram House

The full placement for each house overall and in the five categories has not been published. The Dean of the Ingram Commons Office declined My Commons Life’s request for comment about these rankings.

This competition has been a wild ride, but all things must come to an end. Congratulations to this year’s victors and best of luck to those getting ready to start their Commons journey in the Class of 2026.

Disclaimer: Daniel Sak, the author of this piece, is the Vice President of Hank Ingram House.

Top 5: Things I Will Miss About Commons

by

Photo by Pixabay

All good things must come to an end! I can not believe that our freshman year is practically over! I remember move-in day like it was yesterday: throwing all my Command Strip Hooks in the trash because they couldn’t hold up a single decoration. Going to Walmart with my parents to buy nails to push into the walls. (Shhhhhh…don’t tell OHARE!) Pushing my parents out of the dorm once we were done, and last but not least, looking forward to the new and exciting year ahead. With that being said…let’s take a walk down memory lane!

5. The newness of everything

When you live in a new place on your own for the first time away from your parents, your life changes! Plus, the people you are living with are also excited to make new friends, try new things, and find themselves without things from their past holding them back. It is the most liberating thing. There is nothing like it.

4. Commons itself

From the dining hall options to the many spaces to study, we were all so lucky to have a building like Commons right next door made specifically for us.

3. My Commons Life, duh!!!

Making content for you all has been a dream come true. I am so glad I joined the My Commons Life family when I did. I have received nothing but support from my fellow My Commons Lifers, and for that, I am extremely grateful.

2. Having upperclassmen ask me, “You’re a freshman?!?!?!”

It’s weird when people not that much older than you are surprised with the way you carry yourself. It’s like they expected us to act like children, hahaha! I guess it just proves that we are exceeding people’s expectations, so go us!

1. My dorm!!

My room has been my sanctuary from the storm. From my unbelievably soft bed (thank you mattress topper!), to my view of the Nashville skyline from outside my window, and my floormates who have now become some of my best friends, I AM GOING TO MISS THIS PLACE SO MUCH!

I can confidently say that this has been the best year of my life! Thank you all for making my freshman year one to remember, especially the rest of the My Commons Life family. I will never forget the memories we made together and the fun we had! Years in the future, I will look back on all of this with joy, humor, and fondness. *Thinks to self, “Wow, that was really poetic, Elizabeth!”*

Anyway, I will see EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOU next fall! Happy Summer! (:

Love,

Elizabeth

MCL Top 5: Best Parts of Commons Ball!

by

The best Commons event of the year is finally here — the Botanical Ball is this Sunday, April 24th, from 7:00pm to 10:00pm!

Commons Ball is an annual tradition planned by the Ingram Commons HPAC Presidents. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year marks the first Commons Ball since 2020. A Commons Ball is long overdue, and for many of our current first-year students, we also missed out on landmark dances in high school like prom, homecoming, and formals. With all of these factors combined, the Botanical Ball is a more special, monumental Commons Ball than ever.

One meal swipe is all you need for admission to the Ball. Cocktail attire is suggested, but you are free to come dressed however you feel most comfortable. All Vanderbilt students are welcome, but we are especially excited to extend an enthusiastic invitation to the Class of 2025. We hope to see all of our fellow first-years there!

This event is sure to be a ball (haha, pun intended!). Although there are countless activities and fun aspects to enjoy, I’ve selected the Top 5 things about Commons Ball that you should look forward to:

1. The Presidents’ Dance

I might be biased, but The Presidents’ Dance is sure to be an iconic moment that will go down in Commons history. We’ve been practicing for months, and we’re fully prepared to throw it back on the dance floor. To celebrate the Botanical Ball hosts who have put so much time and effort into making Commons Ball great, come support the presidents as we either embarrass ourselves irreparably or succeed in legendary triumph.

2. Delicious Food

I guarantee you: this will be the best food you will have on Vanderbilt’s campus this year. With shrimp cocktails on an ice sculpture, perfectly crisp bruschetta, savory charcuterie, lively mocktails, a rolling plethora of desserts, and so much more, your taste buds will be transported to a flavorful paradise.

3. Mechanical Bull

Breaking News — a wild bull has invaded the beautiful garden! Although we’ll be enjoying an elegant Botanical Ball, what better way to get your adrenaline pumping than to take on the raving Mechanical Bull? It won’t be easy, but I feel confident that some of our Garden Gallivanters will prevail!

4. Botanical Beaux Arts

If dancing, mini golf, and a mechanical bull aren’t your forte, there will be plenty of opportunities to unleash your creative side with the Botanical Beaux Arts! Commemorate the night by painting a pot and building your own succulent to go inside. Or, you can build a custom mosaic to place in your window and catch sunlight colorfully. If you’re a fan of art but don’t want to create it yourself, check out the caricature artist who will turn your portrait into a masterpiece. No matter your preferred medium, enjoy a garden-themed keepsake to remind you of the Botanical Ball for years to come!

5. Commons Cup Winner Reveal

We’ve been competing all year — from ultimate frisbee to trivia to soda-can tabs… Now, it’s finally time to reveal the winner of the esteemed Commons Cup! Even if your house doesn’t win the whole Commons Cup, perhaps they won in a specific category (Academics, Community Engagement, Service, or Athletics). Alternatively, maybe your house won a superlative or character award. Who knows? I guess you’ll just have to come to Commons Ball on Sunday (April 24th) to find out…

Disclaimer: Devin Laye, the author of this piece, is the President of Murray House and helped plan Commons Ball.

MCL Top 5: Moments of Harambee

by

Recently, the ASU hosted the Harambee event, a cultural showcase with this year’s theme of “The Power of Words.” This year also marks the 21st anniversary of Harambee at Vanderbilt, and though all the performances were breathtaking, I have gathered my top 5 moments that made the night unforgettable.

5. Vibe

Here’s one way to kick off the showcase! Vibe filled the atmosphere with energy; one could not help but feel the need to march with the beat, even from one’s seat. The silhouettes, as with other sections, were also phenomenal! Every outfit, every movement, everything told a story.

4. Nijala

Nijala became an immersive experience with African culture embedded in just about every detail. The program itself was so pleasing to the eye that Harambee had it featured multiple times throughout the show. Oh, and I cannot forget to mention that a fellow member of MCL is part of this masterpiece. Everyone say hello to Elizabeth in the top right corner!

3. Fashion Show

The Fashion Show included a wide range of striking looks that felt like the elite sequel to Fashion Week! This fashion show was anything but ordinary, with couples and trios adding a fresh taste to the presentation. Even more remarkable were the national flags of African countries that some models represented. The grandeur of it all had me on my feet with excitement and praise.

2. Majorette

One of my all-time favorite dances is majorette, so this category was already going to be one for the books. The sounds of trumpets and other pep-rally instruments brought back a rush of the feeling I often associated with sports like football. Every movement of the dancers captured the finesse that only resides in majorette. (Yes, Elizabeth strikes again on the far right!)

1. The Play

Of course, the play would be the one to string all of Harambee together! “The Power of Words” takes on a deeper meaning with the often comedic dialogues between the cast. Here are some of my favorites (roughly translated).

Introduction. A scene with mother and daughter about some devastating news.
“We are poor, daughter.”
“Wait, res college poor or Highland poor?”
“Highland poor!!!”

Here is a scene where the daughter’s boyfriend is not pleased with the news of her being poor.
“You were only with me so that you can get all this stuff.”
“MATERIAL GIRL!” (A friend on the sidelines).

A cue for heated fight scenes.
“You got the wrong one.”

A classic Nicki Minaj reference.
“Broke people should never laugh!”

Bonus!

I captured so many great shots of Harambee that I had to include a few more pictures! Enjoy all the takes as a condensed representation of Harambee. (PS, another MCL member made it to the camera! You can spot Cheryl in the top-middle picture with her hands raised high.)

MCL Top 5 Things to do Instead of Studying for Finals

by

The end is near but there is still a lot to do. Papers’ due dates a hurling towards us and finals are less than two weeks away. It is going to be a long few weeks, and all of us could use a break from studying every once in a while. So whether you are procrastinating or taking a “well-deserved break,” here are the MCL Top 5 Things to do Instead of Studying for your finals.

1. Party at Rites of Spring

This Friday and Saturday April 22 and 23, the biggest event of the year will be held on Alumni Lawn. Artists like 2 Chainz, Miguel, Waka Flocka Flame, and more will be preforming right here on campus. This is an event you better be sure not to miss.

2. Attend the Commons Ball

Here’s another event this weekend that is worth stopping by. This year’ Botanical Ball will be held on Commons Lawn on Sunday April 24 from 7-10 PM. Make sure to check it out.

3. Go Somewhere You’ve Never Gone Before

Most of us only have a few weeks left on campus before we head home for the summer. If you need a break from studying, do some exploring. Whether it is on campus or around Nashville, there are still plenty of new and interesting places to find.

4. Watch the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

No, this isn’t an actual spelling bee; it’s a musical being preformed by Vanderbilt Off Broadway this weekend. If you still feel like you want more to do during the weekend before the final week of classes, this would be a great thing to go see.

5. Use Up Your Meal Money

It’s now or never folks. Whatever meal money you have left, spend it up because whatever you don’t use before the end of the year will be gone. Not to mention, there is nothing like a good meal to refresh you for several more hours of studying.

Grievances of a Homeless Sophomore

by

Life on campus following Spring Break has been hectic. I’ve been swamped with papers and tests, classes need to be picked for the fall, and many organizations are trying to cram in one or two more big events before the school year ends. So while I am in the midst of figuring out how I am going to make it through the final few weeks of this year, I also have to figure out where I am going to live next year.

The answer to this seems easy: I will be living on campus (whether I like it or not). I knew there would be a residential requirement when I chose this school, but I was also told there were lots of options following my first year. Most of you have probably figured out by now that claim was misleading (at best). 

For almost a month, OHARE has been running the main housing assignment process for suites, apartments, and dorms which means that much of the Class of 2025 has been receiving weekly bad news since Spring break ended. While there were a few lucky ones who got 3-person apartments, no rising Sophomores got a 4 person suite, 2 person apartment, or a single room, yet we were told that we should go through those processes anyways. 

But why? Rising Seniors and Juniors get first pick in each of the processes anyways, so why not let all them pick at once like they do with classes? We won’t get the best rooms regardless of how many small steps the process is broken into; at least this structure could save us a month of torment, of belief we have a chance to get the room we want, of hope we’ll get a real choice in where we live next year. If we won’t actually have a great selection of rooms available for our choosing, at least respect us enough to show us an accurate picture of what is up for grabs.

This week, the process finally comes to an end as the last category of rooms will be picked: the dreaded doubles. We all tried to avoid getting stuck here, but now we’re scouring the floor plans trying – with irrational optimism – to find that one double-in-the-rough that may be left over in the upperclassmen’s table scraps. We all know this probably won’t end much better than previous attempts, but at least this will be over soon.

See y’all in Branscomb next year!

Sincerely,

A Homeless Sophomore

MCL Top 5: Fits from Vandy Vanity

by

In case you missed the premiere of the Vandy Vanity fashion show, I have you covered with my five (technically seven) favorite looks. And let me tell you, they all fit the theme of Our Heavenly Bodies to a T!

5. To the Left, to the Left!

Here bringing you all the sass is the model off-center. This attire is perfect for a night out in style. Also, we see you homegirl in the back! The draped top is the cherry on top of any vacation destination. Or one could keep it classy right at home.

4. Swag from Miss Morningstar

Leave a crowd awestruck with this stellar uniform! From the shoes on up, one could literally steal the night, the stars in the night sky becoming the canvas on which one would wear. While having a fantastic pajama-wear aesthetic, a fit like this can also rule the day with confidence.

3. Made You Look

Starting with the model upfront, we have the perfect apparel for both autumn and spring. The detailed crop top adds a dose of elegance, and with styled pants like these, you cannot help but feel bold and confident. The model in the back may be blurry, but the fit is nonetheless stunning! You cannot go wrong with a fierce tutu, and along with rocking some heels, one is sure to turn some heads.

2. Lights, Camera, Pose

This beige outfit is one for the books! Each intricate detail contributes to this exquisite look that is—ah!—to die for! Even in just one shade, one can rest assured not to be forgettable wearing this, making it perfect for practically any event.

1. One, Two Steppin’ It Up

The final outfit that finishes first is a striking look that gets even better in a pair. The twin models and their masterful pose exhibits how versatile the dress is. One could attend a formal or go about a casual day knowing precisely what it feels like to be ethereal.

Final Words

And that concludes my top five fashion fits from the Vandy Vanity showcase! For more information about the fashion show (and, hopefully, more to come) check out their Instagram @thevandyvanity

(P.S. Vandy Vanity was founded by a fellow first-year, Qwynn Foster! The fashion show was just a 1-minute walk from home, being located on Wyatt Lawn. Now that is what I call the Commons Experience!)

MCL Top 5 Things to do Before the End of the Year

by

It may be hard to believe, but we only have one month left in our Freshman Year. Whether it feels like the clock is ticking down too quickly or not quickly enough, one thing is for certain: the end is near. So with the year coming to a close, here are the MCL Top 5 things you should do before the school year comes to an end.

5. Go to a House Event

When your house has an event every week, it can be easy to take it for granted; however, house events are an experience unique to residential colleges. While some of you many have managed to get into a res college next year, these next few weeks may be our last chances to go to a house event for a while. Especially with some houses doing big end-of-the-year events, this is the perfect time to take a break and enjoy some food in the company of your housemates.

4. Plan Your Classes Longterm

This one may not sound as fun as the others on this list, but it is a MUST DO before the school year comes to a close. This year, class registration was a whirlwind. Between getting used to life in college and being the last to pick our classes, just getting enough classes to reach the 12 credit hour minimum was a feat worth celebrating. Many of us did not even know what our majors would be: of course scheduling was going to be a struggle. But now, much of that has changed. Most of us have settled into our (tentative) majors, and we are no longer at the bottom of the totem pole in class selection. This is the perfect time to figure out not only which classes you will take in the fall, but also future semesters. This may seem daunting, but if you are in the major that is truly right for you, looking at your future classes will make you look forward to the future, not dread it.

3. Take a Walk

I have said it before and I will say it again: we live on a beautiful campus. Now that the weather is getting really nice, it is a perfect time to get outside and appreciate your surroundings. When most of us leave in May, we will not get to see these grounds again until August. Enjoy campus while you are still here.

2. Use Your Meal Money

Use it or lose it. Meal Money resets at the end of the year, so make sure to use it all up. Try something new, or go to Jeni’s for the 100th time: it does not matter. Whatever it is that you like to eat, treat yourself. Just make sure to enjoy your time and get some good meals.

1. Do that one last thing

We all have that one thing we have been telling ourselves we should do. This one will be different for each of us. It could mean finally going to a baseball game or the meeting of a certain club. It could be a personal goal that you keep putting off. It does not have to be something big. For me, it was lying outside in a hammock. For a few months now, I have owned a hammock, and I kept telling myself I would put it up and lie in it one day. Last week I finally did it, and it felt amazing. Whatever your “hammock” is, go for it.

Diary of a Tired Vanderbilt Student

by

Hey, y’all! Today I felt inspired to write a few short satirical pieces about some recent experiences I have had at Vanderbilt.

Calculus Rules

Dear Diary,

Entering Calculus class this morning—9am sharp—left a bitter taste in my mouth. I couldn’t tell if it was the usual morning breath or a feeling inside that confirmed the evident dislike I had developed for mathematics. Whatever it was, I knew I couldn’t focus on the lecture yet again. Instead, I doodled on my iPad in the margin lines of my notes whenever the professor stopped writing down equations.

Actually, let’s talk about that for a second. Is it just me or do all good mathematicians write at breakneck speeds? Maybe they have already solved the problem in their heads, and they write so fast as to keep the image of the solution fresh. It would make sense now that I think about it.

Anyway, I have been meaning to attend my professor’s office hours these days, but I have always backed down at the thought of being humiliated for having such little understanding of the content. Practice makes perfect, they say. Though whenever I try to make Calc a priority, I never end up working on as many problems as I should.

Sorry Calculus. After all, I am just an English major visiting.

Signed,
Anonymous

A Keepsake of a Mistake

Dear Diary,

I decided to go for a Randwich today after Spanish class. Yes, I was brave enough to wait out that long line from rush hour. Oh, and guess who was in front of me while I was waiting?

Someone from Visions. I wanted to say hi to them, but they seemed pretty occupied with their phone. It wasn’t until we split paths for ordering that they looked to the side and waved at me. I had to smile a little at the innocence of it all. But before I could contemplate the interaction any longer, I was asked, “What are you having?” for the third time (possibly fourth).

I went with the usual: hoagie roll, turkey and bacon (not to be confused with turkey bacon), and cheddar cheese. When it came time for the toppings, I always kept it simple—just lettuce.

And honey mustard. Definitely cannot forget honey mustard. I could have sworn I told them honey mustard…but when they dabbed a green paste on my sandwich, I assumed I said otherwise. Technically, I had time to double-check that they had the right sauce in hand, but I know how hard the campus dining staff work. I didn’t want to be another headache.

On my first bite, I tasted the pesto. I ended up skipping lunch for the day.

Signed,
Mystery

I Came for the Giveaway

Dear Diary,

Confession time.

I went to the basketball game today, and I went alone because all my friends were busy. It was a busy Saturday for me too, so I already knew I would not stay the entire game.

Well, it turns out that this basketball game had a jersey giveaway. What? No, of course I did not make the sole purpose of me going to the game about a shirt that was, frankly, three times my size…

Look, I know I was not the only one, okay? Plus, I deserve this jersey! I was in need of a collectible.

#SorryNotSorry

Signed,
Some Hank Resident

Top 5 Cleanses To Go On

by

Photo by Keegan Houser from Pexels

Time to bring up those New Years’ resolutions again!

This time of the year for some people is Lent, which is a religious event in which you give up a temptation of yours for a specific amount of time in order to practice self-control and to spend more time doing other things in your daily life. Even if you are not religious, this practice is beneficial for the mental and emotional health of practically anybody. So here’s a challenge: give up a craving of yours for a week and see how you do! Read the following for some ideas on what to give up!

  1. Sugar – For all my sweet-tooths out there, eat a salad. At the end of your fast, stop by Jeni’s and get all the ice cream pints to stock up in your fridge as you want. But for now, eat a salad. It’s healthier, and who knows? You might live longer. (;
  2. Complaining – This idea is trageted at myself specifically. When things do not go my way, I complain about it. It’s just a natural response for me. However, I forget that things could be way worse than what they are now. I have a lot to be grateful for, and yet, I tend to take all of those things for granted. So, the next time I feel like complaining, I’m gonna tell someone (EX: my study buddy in Calc) or something (my weekly 2301 bowl) that I am thankful for their or its presence.
  3. Coffee – Some people say they love coffee, but actually, they love the cream and sugar they ask for in their milkshake-like frappucinos. Anywho (sorry to rip into some of y’all), coffee is an addictive substance that can keep you awake but can also make you jittery and anxious. You’re better off skipping the daily morning drink, and… I don’t know, maybe GETTING ENOUGH SLEEP AT NIGHT?!?! Stop staying up ’til 4 am watching Tik Tok. Your body and brain will thank you when you can go to bed at 11 pm and wake up at 8 am every day consitstently.
  4. Procrastinating – This may be the most difficult suggestion on the list simply because it is such an easy thing to do. If you have an assignment that is due in a week, are you going to start it now? NO! You’re gonna get on HBO, and wait two years for the 3rd season of Euphoria to come out. Well, maybe you can plan out your schedule, so that you have small goals to accomplish each day towards getting your work done. With this less stressful approach to studying and homework, you can beat that procrastination monkey to a pulp! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=arj7oStGLkU)
  5. Cursing – I respect your right to free speech, but cursing can be a bad habit. You do not want to be in the middle of an interview and accidentally drop your pen and instinctively yell out “@#$%!” That would significantly lower your chances of getting hired. I know, “YoU cAn’T hElP iT.” If you make it less of a habit, you’ll have better control of your language, and you’ll be less likely to slip up in inappropriate situations.

REMEMBER: Do not stress if you break your fast in less than a week! It’s okay! Be kind to yourself. You are trying. Trying takes effort. Putting in the effort proves that you are committed, and because of that, I’m proud of you! Go you!

Your #1 Cheerleader,

Elizabeth (: